Where evidence meets policy

Dr Tina Haux, Quantitative Lecturer in Criminology/Sociology, University of Kent

Policy makers want fathers to be more involved with their children and for less dads to lose contact with their children after a split. New research shows there may be lessons for policy makers about parenting before a split occurs.

Single motherhood places huge strains on the individual and can lead to increased risk of both mental and physical ill health in later years. The health of single mothers matters but at present is seemingly ignored by policy makers.

Why are disproportionate numbers of people from ethnic minority groups stuck in low-paid jobs? Helen Barnard of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation says specific policy initiatives are needed to address the issue.